BCB President Faruque Ahmed Chooses to Remain in Position

Faruque Ahmed has chosen not to resign from his role as president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), despite being informed that the government no longer wants him to continue. On Wednesday night, the youth and sports adviser conveyed the government's position to Faruque, who requested a few days to reflect before reaching a decision.

Speaking to Prothom Alo on Thursday, the former national team captain and ex-chief selector said, “I have decided not to resign. I’ve been told the government doesn’t want me to stay on as BCB president, but no reason was given. Without a valid explanation, I see no reason to step down.”

Cricket insiders believe Faruque’s decision sends a strong message against government interference in BCB affairs. A former national captain, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Nobody should be allowed to play political games with Bangladesh cricket. You appoint someone arbitrarily, and then try to remove him without explanation—this raises serious concerns internationally.”

Sources indicate that several current and former cricketers have advised Faruque to hold firm. “He didn’t lobby for the position,” said one cricketer. “The government appointed him. So what has he done now that they want him gone?”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) maintains a strict stance against political meddling in cricket governance. Countries like Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka have previously faced suspension due to similar interference.

Faruque Ahmed was appointed to the board under the National Sports Council (NSC) quota following the fall of the Awami League government. He and Nazmul Abedin replaced former directors Jalal Yunus and Ahmed Sajjadul Alam. Faruque was subsequently elected BCB president after Nazmul Hasan stepped down.